Sunday, January 31, 2010

Free Toes

Introducing Free Toes, the socks that allow your toes to go free!

These funky socks were designed by nine-year-old Katelyn, a young entrepreneur from White Rock, BC.

Free Toes are great for doing yoga or pilates because they keep your feet warm but still allow your toes to grip the mat. They're also ideal for dance class as they allow the heel to spin but keep the toe slip-free!

We think the one of the great uses for them is at the spa: After a pedicure you have to wear flip-flops but with this cold weather that can get chilly. As the photo above demonstrates, Free Toes allow the toes to fit through the sandal but also keep the rest of the foot warm.

Stop by Skindulgence for a pedicure and a pair of Free Toes!

Sincerely,

Skindulgence

P.s. You can visit Little Kate's Boutique here!

Friday, January 29, 2010

Valentine's Day Ideas

February is the month of love and what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a luxurious trip to the spa? We offer great packages and side-by-side rooms that allow you to connect and relax with your loved one while getting pampered.


But if you can't make it to the spa or want to get a little more intimate here are some of the best ways to celebrate Valentine's Day with that special person:

  • Take the spa to your home with massages oils, candles and relaxing music! Skindulgence sells all of these :)

  • Go out for a romantic dinner at a quiet restaurant or your favourite place to grab a bite

  • Spend the day reliving your first date (if it was a good one!)

  • Curl up on the couch for a movie marathon and a take-out food.

  • Try cooking some exciting foods and incorporate some classic aphrodisiacs.

  • Skip dinner and indulge in some chocolate and wine
Whatever you end up doing, be it with your friends, your partner or your family, we hope that you rejoice in spending quality time together and remember just how happy you are to have loving people in your lives!

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Dry Skin is Different than Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin is skin that is lacking water.
Dry Skin is skin that is lacking water and lipids.


Water constitutes 70% of the dermis and is vital to the skin to preserve its youth. All skin types can be dehydrated even those who have oily or combination skin. There are many ways to tell when your skin is dehydrated: If your skin is dull or without glow, rough to touch, lacks elasticity and suppleness, feels taut or uncomfortable or is irritable and reactive you may be dehydrated. If your skin is dehydrated try the effective combination of GM Collin's Hydramucine Concentrate and Optimal Gel or Cream.


When skin is dry, it means it is lacking sebum (oils) as well as water. Sebum is a key oil in the skin's natural protective coating and is essential to lock in moisture. An equilibrium in water and sebum is fundamental to healthy skin! Dry skin can be flaky, chapped, peeling, tight and irritated. There are many ways that skin can become dry. Weather often plays a large factor, as do health issues, improper skin care and genetics. Luckily there are many products that can help relieve taut, dry skin. Try using GM Collin's Lipiad with the Nutriderm Cream from GM Collin or Yonka's signature Yonka Serum or Le Baume for the face.


Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Heather MacIntosh

*These are only recommendations and may not be suited for all skin types. Please speak with one of our qualified estheticians before purchasing, or book a complimentary consultation*

Monday, January 25, 2010

Hair Removal Options

No one wants stubborn, unwanted hair on their body. Both men and women are seeking different kinds of hair removal options. Using a razor will result in dark shadows, prickly regrowth and will start growing back almost immediately. Skindulgence offers a few different hair removal alternatives like laser, waxing and our newest addition - Alkaline Wash.

Alkaline Wash by Danne is an alkaline solution used on the hair, generally done in a series of treatments to dissolve the hair progessively over time. this unique service is offered by Tazeem Jamal PMDT. The Alkaline Wash treatment is virtually painless and perfect for that annoying peach fuzz on the face. It is a great alternative to laser! It can be effective to greatly reduce the darkness and coarseness of hair anywhere else on the body. Check out our FAQ on our site here. Don't wait to "shed your winter hair" and book your consultation today!


Laser is a progressive and more permanent treatment by which the laser beam goes into the hair root and cauterizes the root not allowing new hair to grow. The existing hair will then naturally fall out. The technology is virtually painless and your skin colour is not an issue. We offer complimentary consultations to determine treatment areas and cost.

Waxing is not considered a permanent hair removal, but it is very effective in reducing the hair over time. The hair will become less dense and finer in texture. Our waxing experts have many bikini options like a standard bikini line, french bikini line, or full brazilian bikini.


Sincerely,

Skindulgence

Written by Paige Forgie

Friday, January 22, 2010

Leading Spas of Canada 2010

As new members of The Leading Spas of Canada, we are thrilled to be featured in this comprehensive publication of Canadian Spas across the country. A member-driven organization, Leading Spas of Canada counts on individuals, spa owners and directors to keep moving forward to help bring about more awareness of the spa industry, particulaly in our great country, to the consumer. Our very own Spa Director, Tazeem Jamal is actively involved as the chair for the membership committee. We were also featured in the Winter issue of Spa Life Magazine, Canada's only consumer spa magazine.

We are thrilled that Canadian spas are getting wider recognition for all of the healing and rejuventating treatments they offer, and we are especially proud to be listed among the best of the best. We look forward to our future collaborations with these organizations.
Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Top Ten Reasons to Choose Skindulgence

1) We have been in the business of Spaahing before it was the "in thing"!

2) We specialize in result-oriented treatments and we are serious about skincare.

3) Our staff are passionate about their work and it shines through in their knowledge of the products and their expert advice.

4) We offer innovative technology and a rejuvenating touch that has gained Skindulgence an international reputation for excellence and 20 years of client loyalty!

5) We are a personal, boutique spa that knows it's customers by face and name. You're not just our client, you're our friend.

6) We offer exciting promotions that often come with free gifts!

7) We give extremely professional client care and pay close attention to detail.

8) Someone will always have an answer to your question and we will always go the extra mile to make sure we have all the right information so we can serve you the best.

9) We are proud to give back to the community and to support local charities!

10) We offer many unique treatments such as Okanagan Wine treatments, exotic exfoliants and more!

Monday, January 18, 2010

Fast Facts: Foundation Brushes

The biggest issue women have with makeup once that have purchased the right products is knowing how to apply it. There is a HUGE difference between an "okay" makeup application and a flawless finish. The key to a perfect application is the tools that you use. There are many different types of brushes on the market that all do different things. What is important is knowing how and when to use them. Below are our essential brushes that no makeup wearing women should live without.

Kabuki Brush - The ideal brush for applying powder mineral make up. The short, dense fibers hold onto the powder and only releases it when the brush is buffed against the skin. No product goes to waste!

Liquid Foundation Brush - A good foundation brush is flat with dense, smooth fibers. It helps to distribute the product evenly and smoothly. Apply foundation from the center of the face and work outwards. This keeps foundation from collecting in the hair line. Don't forget to bring liquid foundation down the neck. Nothing ruins a look like a line of makeup at the jaw!

Blush Brush - There are tons of different blush brushes but the most standard, easy to use is the fluffy domed brush. The difficult part is getting the right size: too small and your blush will appear streaky and uneven... But too big and you lose any contouring and definition. The perfect size is when the head of the brush is slightly smaller than the width of your cheek bone.

Powder Brush - The powder brush looks similar to the blush brush, and it is! The difference is that a good powder brush is much larger with soft, more open bristles. It should lightly dust translucent or setting powder over the face without caking it on. Sweep a little extra over the forehead, nose and chin where your face is more likely to get oily throughout the day.

Angled Brush - This brush is optional. If you apply bronzers or cheek contouring powders however, it is essential. Load your brush up with bronzer, tap the excess powder off, then run the brush on a diagonal beneath your cheek bone. For a golden glow, sweep bronzer up along the temples, down the nose, across the chin and under the jawline. Use a light hand when doing this, especially if you have fair skin. The key is to blend, blend, blend!

There are also smaller brushes that can be used for applying concealers, dusting on highlights to cheek and brow bones, and applying lipsticks. While these brushes can help to achieve an airbrushed, polished finish it is important to master overall face techniques first. We hope this quick run down was useful in helping you find the tools you need to creating the best you possible!
Sincerely,
Skindulgence
written by Paige Forgie

Saturday, January 16, 2010

GliSODin Open House


We've reviewed and raved GliSODin Skin Nutrients on this blog and we're so excited to be sharing it with our fabulous clients! If you want to learn more about GliSODin you can attend our soiree on Tuesday, January 19th from 6:30-8:30pm. Corina Chrysler, one of the founders of GliSODin, will be here from Toronto to speak about the product and to answer questions.


To RSVP to this event, phone us at (604) 469-2688.


Sincerely,

Skindulgence

Written by Paige Forgie

Friday, January 15, 2010

Drugstore Brands vs. Department Store Brands vs. US! (Guess who wins!)

At Skindulgence we pride ourselves in being knowledgeable on the products and services we offer. We are passionate about skincare and are always striving to bring our clients the most effective products possible to maximize your results.

There are thousands of different skincare brands on the market and choosing a line that works for you can be difficult. Have you ever gone into your local drugstore and stared at the array of cleansers, toners, lotion, potions and creams? It's no wonder that so many women struggle with a wide range of skin issues; Figuring out what is right for you is nearly impossible! And even if you do manage to make a decision, often drugstore brands are irritating and ineffective.

Many women turn to high-end skincare that is sold at counters in big department stores. While the ingredients used may be of better quality (versus drugstore brands) often these companies have their skincare lines as an add-on to makeup lines. This means they aren't completely focused on cleansing and maintaining women's skin and don't necessarily have your best interest at heart.

So we've done the leg work for you. Our owner and head esthetician, Tazeem Jamal, has been in the business for over twenty years. She has tried countless skincare lines and knows what works: GM Collin and Yonka are the two premium skincare lines that we carry and stand by 100%. They are made with the finest products, are result-oriented and easily customized to suit any skin type.

The best part about coming into Skindulgence to purchase your skincare products is that we won't make you guess as to what products are right for your individual needs. Instead, you can book a free consultation and we will assess your skin for you. Dry skin? Dehydrated skin? Oily? Acne prone? Aging? Don't worry -- We've got a product to help your skin look and feel amazing.

PLUS: Find out how you can get a FREE travel skincare kit from GM Collin or Yonka!

Call us today to book your complimentary skincare consultation and find out what so many clients have known for years.

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Crush Mineral Makeup

Crush Mineral Makeup is Skindulgence's very own makeup line! We have a wide selection of products that are much better alternatives to the traditional liquid and powder makeup products. Check out the post below to see the benefits of mineral makeup!


The Crush Mineral Makeup line includes:


Mineral Powder Foundation - contains SPF 8. This powder foundation works well as a translucent powder or as a building base for coverage in a foundation. This lightweight powder easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage. It does not irritate common skin sensitivities and camouflages imperfections, such as scars, post-op bruising and port wine stains.

Liquid Powder Foundation - Contains SPF 15. The fluid version of mineral powder foundation. The innovative liquid formula, fortified with our exclusive multi-mineral complex glides on velvety smooth, and sets to a soft powder finish while micro diffusers keep skin looking flawless.

Mineral Sheer Tint - Contains SPF 20. Clinically engineered to multitask as a foundation, sun screen and antioxidant lotion, this ultra sheer cream features an extra boost - multi mineral complex of copper, gold, sodium, cobalt, and other vital elements. Potent anti-oxidants, ginkgo biloba, ginseng and vitamins A, E and C protect against free radical damage while moisturizing your skin.

Hydra-Bright Line Diffuser - The ideal companion for mineral based make-up. Duel action concealer hides under eye darkness, while diminishing lines and wrinkles. No-show coverage is excellent for camouflaging scars, post procedure bruises, hyper pigmentation and other imperfections.

Mineral Powder Bronzer - A light weight powder designed to brighten and color your skin tone, either placed all over the face and neck area, or just on the highlights to give a sun kissed appearance.

Mineral Sheer Veil - An evolution in mineral technology, the mineral sheer veil floats over the skin like liquid light to brighten and enhance like never before. Just one sweep transforms any skin tone from dull to delicately luminous.

Illuminated Concealer - Infused with light reflective particles and botanical extracts that help to relax muscles to reduce signs of aging. It gently conceals fine lines and wrinkles, signs of fatigue, dark circles and other flaws.

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Adapted from the Skindulgence Website

Fast Facts: Mineral Make up

Within the last few years mineral make up has become increasingly popular and with good reason. Mineral make up offers many benefits to the wearer:

1) It is light-weight and breathable. You can even sleep in it! (Although at Skindulgence we believe in morning and night skincare... But in emergency cases we condone it!)

2) Minerals reflect light which helps to disguise fine lines and wrinkles. Old-fashioned liquid foundation topped with powder has a tendency to sink into the skin's creases making wrinkles more apparent.

3) It leaves your skin with a natural, radiant glow.

4) It is long-lasting and water-resistant so touch ups aren't necessary.

5) It sits on the skin instead of being absorbed. Traditional liquid foundation sinks into the skin which can lead to acne, black heads and uneven complexion.

6) Unlike heavy liquid foundations, mineral makeup doesn't feel like a mask. Since mineral make up consists of crushed minerals and natural inorganic colorings there are no added oils. This means that mineral make up is ideal for people with sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin.

If you've suffered bad reactions to traditional make up then it's time you took a look into mineral make up. It works wonders for all skin types!

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Monday, January 11, 2010

Fast Facts: Lipomassage

Hopefully you've been keeping up with the blog and read our tips for setting successful New Year's Resolutions! The most common New Years resolution often has to do with health and fitness. Whether you're just trying to eat more veggies or hitting the gym three times a week most of us are looking to tone and shape our bodies.

At Skindulgence we offer the revolutonary Lipomassage by Endermologie to help you meet your health goals. When you hear "lipomassage" you might think "liposuction" but the two are not at all similar. Liposuction is surgical, invasive and painful. Lipomassage on the other hand, is the relaxing, non-surgical, non-invasive alternative to a firmer, more toned body. But the benefits of Lipomassage don't stop there. It also:

~increases blood circulation by 400% (poor circulation can lead to many health issues such as blood clots, varicose veins, carpal tunnel and many more)

~increases lymphatic drainage by 300% (the lymphatic system eliminates toxins from the body)
~helps eliminate cellulite and stored fats

~contours sagging skin

~addresses water retention and fat deposits

Each session is 35-45 minutes long and is pure relaxation. Getting Lipomassage treatments is like going to the gym; With weekly sessions your body will become more toned and firm.

We have a special January Promotion for those interested in Lipomassage. Pre-pay for 10 treatments and pay only $99 per treatment (plus the one time additional charge of the bodysuit). This is a savings of up to 40%!

We hope this offer will give you the motivation you need to get you on the right track to a healthier, detoxified, slimmer you.
Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Friday, January 8, 2010

January Promotions!

Facials are one of the most relaxing and beneficial ways to revitalize the skin. At Skindulgence we use the finest quality products for our facials from two expert lines: GM Collin and Yonka. The best way to maximize the benefits of your facial treatment is to continue using the same products we use in the spa at home. We understand the importance of a daily skincare regimen and can help you to find the products that are ideal for your skin type. To encourage you to start a skincare routine we are offering two fabulous promotions for January:

  • When you book any GM Collin Clinical Facial in the month of January get a FREE GM Collin 3-piece Travel Kit. The Travel Kit includes a cleanser, lotion and cream that will last you about five weeks! It's the perfect size for bringing on vacation or for business trips. Valued at $45.00!
  • When you book any Yonka Clinical Facial in the month of January receive a FREE Yonka 2-piece Travel Kit. The Travel Kit includes a cleanser and a lotion that will last about five weeks. It's the perfect way to try fabulous new products in convenient sizes! Valued at $29.95!
We have travel kits for all skin types. Don't forget: If you like the products in the Travel Kit they're available in larger sizes to keep at home!

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie

Friday, January 1, 2010

New Year Resolution


HAPPY NEW YEARS!

We are closed today but will reopen Saturday and then we are closed again on Sunday. After that we return to our regular store hours.
We hope that you have all made your New Year Resolutions. We have come up with some ways to help you stick to your goals:

1) Tell someone. By sharing your goals with another person it makes you accountable. Choose someone particularly naggy or irritating. You'll want to achieve your goal just so that they'll stop bugging you about it!

2) Write them down and put them somewhere you'll see them daily. Tape them to your bathroom mirror, dashboard of your car or next to your keyboard.

3) Make a variety of goals. Set goals both short and long term so that you'll experience the "instant gratification" that comes with repainting the kitchen but also have a "work in progress" such as going to the gym more frequently. Make your goals somewhat realistic so you don't feel disappointed when they become impossible but don't underestimate your abilities either.

4) Be sure to include trying something new. It doesn't necessarily have to be something scary like bungee jumping, but perhaps you've always admired belly dancing or the crocheted hats your grandmother used to make. Try taking a class at your local rec center or picking up a How-To book. Not only will you learn how to do something new but you might meet some great people while you're at it.

We hope that you are able to achieve all your hopes, wishes and dreams!

Sincerely,
Skindulgence
Written by Paige Forgie